How Do Sports Cultivate Discipline and Resilience Beyond the Arena? Insights from Manipur CM Khemchand Singh
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Imphal, Feb 11 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Manipur, Yumnam Khemchand Singh, participated in the concluding ceremony of the 34th Manipur State Taekwondo Championship-2026 held at the Khuman Lampak Indoor Stadium in Imphal on Wednesday.
While addressing the audience, the Chief Minister remarked that sports not only enhance physical capabilities but also foster mental resilience, discipline, and character. He emphasized that engaging regularly in martial arts promotes beneficial habits such as early rising, effective time management, and self-control.
Furthermore, he stated that sports boost endurance and focus, which are invaluable traits in everyday life. Singh pointed out that the discipline gained through martial arts cultivates virtues like honesty, responsibility, and perseverance among practitioners.
In recognition of his achievements, Singh was honored with a 5th-Dan Black Belt in traditional Taekwondo by the Global Traditional Taekwondo Federation located in Seoul, South Korea, last December.
On the occasion, Minister Khuraijam Loken Singh highlighted the necessity for parents and guardians to instill the value of discipline in children from a young age to aid them in excelling in both sports and life. He urged relevant authorities to maintain a transparent and unbiased selection process.
He also emphasized that fairness and merit-based opportunities are crucial for fostering talent and producing top-tier athletes from the state.
The four-day championship, which featured participation from 32 teams, showcased the vibrant enthusiasm and competitive spirit for Taekwondo throughout Manipur.
During the event, the Chief Minister awarded prizes to the winners and congratulated all participants for their commitment and sportsmanship.
Among those present were MLA Tongbram Robindro Singh, Director of Youth Affairs and Sports Mayengbam Veto Singh, President of the Manipur Olympic Association Sunil Elangbam, officials from the Youth Affairs and Sports Department, athletes, and other dignitaries.
Later that evening, the Chief Minister conducted an inspection of the ongoing road construction projects at Thangal Bazar. He assessed the project's progress and engaged with onsite officials, stressing the necessity for timely completion and high-quality execution to ensure public convenience.